The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has helped tear down barriers for
millions of people living with disabilities. On the anniversary of this
important legislation, our Nation underscores our commitment to ensuring
that all individuals have an equal opportunity to realize their full
potential.

On July 26, 1990, President George H. W. Bush signed this groundbreaking
Act into law, better enabling citizens with disabilities to participate
fully in all aspects of life. Over the course of nearly two decades, this
Act has made our schools and workplaces more welcoming, helped change
attitudes that once seemed unchangeable, and expanded opportunity for many
exceptional Americans. The ADA is one of the most successful civil rights
laws in our history and has been an essential part of countless American
lives.

My Administration is committed to working to empower those with
disabilities so that all our people can achieve the American dream.
Building on the success of the ADA, the New Freedom Initiative of 2001 has
had a positive impact for many of our citizens. Technological advances have
helped individuals gain greater access to everyday life. Students with
disabilities are given the tools they need to succeed, and in the
workplace, innovative hiring and employment practices are helping to
integrate Americans with disabilities into the workforce. The Ticket to
Work and AbilityOne programs have helped them become more self-sufficient
by expanding access to employment. Our Nation has benefited from the
progress we have made since the enactment of the ADA, and it is our
responsibility to continue working toward a country where all people are
treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.

On this anniversary, we highlight our commitment to the ADA and celebrate
the progress that has been made toward full participation of people with
disabilities in our society.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim July 26, 2008, as a day in
celebration of the 18th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
I call on all Americans to celebrate the vital contributions of
individuals with disabilities as we work towards fulfilling the promise of
the ADA to give all our citizens the opportunity to live with dignity, work
productively, and achieve their dreams.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth day of
July, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the Independence
of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-third.